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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment indicated that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant financial backing,” the operator noted.

In a later update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had serious health conditions that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with utmost compassion and deliberation,” the operator said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have shown interest in buying the facility and continuing to care for the lions. Even though the deadline is short and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “practical or compassionate option” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, requesting a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed desire that the park would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to hostile and abusive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We acknowledge that feelings are intense, but we request compassion and decency as we handle this devastating predicament.”

The proprietor refused to comment.

The government department indicated that the choice to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official stated that euthanasia had to be performed compassionately, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the representative noted. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and containment obligations.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The facility frequently ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body ordered the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.